Main menu

Illness forces Glock out of European Grand Prix

Timo Glock missed the European Grand Prix in Valencia, Spain, with a stomach illness. Photo by LAT PHOTOGRAPHIC

Timo Glock, who missed Formula One qualifying on Saturday with a stomach illness, is still not well enough to race in Valencia, which means that the European Grand Prix will have only 23 starters.

While the Marussia team does not have a qualified official reserve driver, it does have arrangements with other teams to borrow someone if necessary--McLaren's Gary Paffett is an obvious candidate. But because Glock appeared to be OK prior to the practice session on Friday, it became too late to substitute another driver.

A team statement said, “Further to the medical problem which prevented Timo Glock from participating in yesterday's qualifying session for the European Grand Prix in Valencia, the Marussia F1 Team can confirm that Timo is unable to compete in today's race.

“Timo received medical guidance yesterday afternoon, and his symptoms suggest that he is suffering from an intestinal infection. He has been advised that it would be unwise for him to race given the severity of the complaint and that he should focus instead on recuperating.

“Timo spent the evening resting at his hotel in Valencia and is in good spirits. He will return home later today.”